How to Diagnose Head Lice

If possible, begin by wetting the hair of the affected child or adult, as this can make it easier to see the lice. This also prevents the lice from scurrying away.

Sit the affected child or adult under a bright light.

Separate hair into sections. Beginning at the scalp, slowly comb outward through the hair section by section.

Look for adult lice and their eggs (called nits). You are more likely to see nits than adults because nits are firmly attached to the hair and do not move. Look closely at the hair behind the ears and around the nape of the neck.